Preparing Students for National Security Careers

Seton Hall University is offering a unique program in national security through its School of Diplomacy and International Relations. This initiative gives graduate students practical experience with real national security challenges before entering the workforce. The program features an impressive 80% placement rate, with graduates finding roles at top agencies such as the NSA, CIA, Secret Service, and more. This statistic underscores the program’s valuable impact on students’ career paths.

The National Security Graduate Fellowship, led by founder Mohamad Mirghahari, connects students with government agencies. These agencies benefit from student research and analysis on crucial foreign policy and national security topics. Mirghahari emphasizes his aim for students to be ready from their first day in a job. His extensive experience includes 14 years in leadership roles within the Department of Defense, focusing on global counterterrorism, and serving as a special advisor to the Defense Department.

According to Mirghahari, the program stands out because students address current national security challenges in collaboration with government entities. Agencies often lack resources to cover all areas, so students’ research becomes particularly valuable. Furthermore, guest lecturers and professors from various government sectors provide insights, preparing students for the evolving national security landscape.

Our program is unlike any other in the nation because our graduate students are actually tackling real-world national security challenges and issues from government agencies.

One notable project involved U.S. re-engagement with the Taliban, with findings proving crucial over the years. The program also focuses on new challenges involving artificial intelligence and data analysis. Students contribute technological expertise, aiding government agencies facing these emerging issues.

Artificial intelligence plays a critical role in the program. Mirghahari describes AI as a ‘force multiplier,’ enhancing students’ abilities to navigate cyber threats and operations. They use AI, graph theory, and other methods to analyze extensive datasets, providing valuable insights to government partners.

Mirghahari notes that the program’s practical approach means students acquire skills they would otherwise gain only after years in a national security role. Feedback from agencies shows that students are exceptionally well-prepared compared to long-serving employees.